Alice Driver Merryman

Sad events have befallen us here at switch, my grandmother, passed away last week at the honorable age of 100. As the creator of Switch I have been inspired by many people, but there has been no inspiration greater than, my grandmother, Alice Merryman.

This outspoken woman from the tiny town of Clinton, Arkansas traveled the world, educated people on politics and religion, created crafts, and took part in historical events that celebrate American heritage. My grandmother first came to NYC during the sixties. Her visit was to attend the Worlds Fair and to show off her shukery. For those of you who do not know what shukery is; shukery is a traditional American Indian craft, where items such as dolls, chairs, bonnets or bowels are made from roped or woven corn husk. One item she took with her, on this adventure, to display, at the Worlds Fair, was a foot stool that she hand crafted. This stool now sits in the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC. My family takes immense pride in this piece, not just because it is fortunate enough to be sitting in the Smithsonian, but because now, generations of families can come and learn about the history of shukery. My grandmother was not only handy with her hands in craft but she also wrote a book on shukery.

This book explained the methods, styles, and techniques, and as I am reminded of this I become very reflective. I see the influences she has had on me to get interested in craft, to come to NYC and pursue my fine arts degree at Parsons College, and to walk in her footsteps by publishing my own how to book– Which will be printed by Potter Craft, a division of Random House, in Summer of 2008 and will encompass technology and craft.

My Grandmother Alice has left her footprints on the world and will now be missed, she taught us though action and words to never stop helping others, always take time for family, and most importantly that making things with your hands will keep your mind and heart strong. With these ideas she will live forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and loved ones. Take the time today to visit her website, and find inspiration. Inspiration from a special women, from a different era, who helped shape our world today…

www.alicedrivermerryman.org

My grandmother didn't start crafting and painting until she was in her late 50's, but when she started she never stopped. In the last 50 years of her life she made and gave away so many items that its impossible to share them all with you. However, here are a few that I think show her tenacity for making and impeccable skills as a craftswoman.

One of the beautiful hand stitched patchwork quilts. Grandma made at least 10 quilts a year up until the age of 99.

Her corn shuck dolls are a family favorite, each one unique. (We all wanted the Indian though because he had feathers!)

Her famous corn shuckery roses, her website has directions on how to make these flowers.

Grandma made beautiful flower arrangements with her corn shuck flowers and from natural items she found on the farm.

Unlike me, grandma wasn't into fashion. But that didn't keep her from making fashionable items like this woven corn husk purse.

Thank you Grandma!

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